FOG Program (Fats, Oils & Grease)

care-cleaning-wipe-out-post-image (JPG)

As part of our continuing effort to protect the environment as well as the integrity and operation of public infrastructure, the City of Rosenberg instituted the FOG Program. The Program targets the effective control of FOG discharges by Generators into the municipal sanitary sewer system.

What is FOG?

FOG stands for Fats, Oil and Grease. The common sources of fats, oils and grease include, but are not limited to: meat fats, dairy products, food scraps, lard, butter, auto maintenance activities, etc.

Pradit_Ph-fat-oil-and-grease

Does FOG have an impact at all?

Yes. The sewer system is not designed to handle or treat these substances. Unkept grease traps and FOG poured down the drain coat the inside of pipes, which cools down and hardens, eventually forming a blockage. Blockages in sewage lines result in:

  • Foul smells
  • Sewer backups into homes, streets, yards
  • Property damage
  • Expensive plumbing repairs
  • Hazards and threats to the environment

What is a Generator?

A Generator is a facility that generates FOG as a result of activities performed onsite. These facilities include, but are not limited to: restaurants, grocery stores, schools, hospitals, churches, auto repair shops, etc. FOG Inspectors will periodically visit local Generators.

What will the FOG Program regulate?

Through inspections, FOG Inspectors will review and document generators’ compliance with city ordinances and state and federal regulations. The FOG Inspector has a right of entry for the specified purposes based on provisions from City Ord. Sec. 29-111d. Failure to permit entry in accordance with the above conditions constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by fine up to $500 for each day of violation (Ord. Sec. 1-13a).

Where can I submit FOG manifests?

Manifest copies and any other FOG documents need to be addressed to ATTN to: Utilities Program – FOG Program. These documents can be:

FOG BMP Logo.png

FOG BMP

Did you know the FOG (Fats, Oils and Grease) Program has an online portal? The FOG BMP is an interactive web-based portal that connects Generators and Waste Hauling companies with the City through the use of tools and training that enables them to manage all aspects of the FOG Program from one centralized hub. 

Once registered, this easy-to-use portal will:

  • Save you from having to create a FOG BMP program of your own.
  • Establish a fully compliant written FOG Best Management Plan that will satisfy your local, state, and federal rules and regulations.
  • Provide built-in FOG management and staff training features to ensure the program is being adhered to, affording you peace of mind.
  • Reduce the amount of FOG being introduced into your plumbing system, thereby reducing expensive service calls resulting from blockages.

The portal can be accessed online at fogbmp.com. If you are a FOG Generator (restaurant, motor oil shop, school, etc.) and have questions on how   to   remain   in   compliance,   contact   our   Utilities   Department   at 832-595-3400 or email us at info@rosenbergtx.gov.

Oil Draining small.jpg

Do’s and Don’ts of FOG

Do:

  1. Wipe pots, pans, and work areas prior to washing
  2. Dispose of food waste directly into the trash or compost area
  3. Collect waste oil and store for recycling

Do not:

  1. Pour cooking residue directly into the drain
  2. Dispose of food waste into the garbage disposal
  3. Pour waste oil directly into the drain

Additional information and links

For more information about the FOG Program and helpful suggestions, please visit the following:

FOG BMP portal

FOG Program pamphlet

FOG Best Management Practices

FOG Best Management Practices - Spanish

Tackle the Grease poster – English

Tackle the Grease poster – Spanish

TCEQ FOG link: Reducing Fats, Oils and Grease in Your Commercial Kitchen 

Rosenberg’s Ordinance link: Sewer Use Regulations